Chelsea supporters on social media were sure Ben Chilwell was about to reclaim his spot in the side after hearing the news about Marcos Alonso.
Alonso earned a call-up to the Spain squad for their upcoming Nations League clash against Italy.
The defender’s last appearance for his country arrived back in 2018.
Changes in managers and Chelsea’s fortunes have kept the 30-year-old away from the international scene for so long.
But Alonso’s revival under Thomas Tuchel has thrust him into contention for national duty once again.
This is good news for both the Spaniard and Chilwell, who might find his route to the left wing-back position slightly less treacherous.
This is this opinion of Chelsea fans anyway, who recognised this as the perfect opportunity for the Englishman to impress Tuchel.
Here’s how they reacted on Twitter:
A Chill-well in the air
Of course, Chilwell could be picked to represent England for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
However, he was left out of the last camp, having not played a minute of domestic football until the Champions League game against Zenit St Petersburg earlier this month.
His minimalised action for Chelsea might influence Gareth Southgate’s decision.
If the Three Lions manager opts for the exclusion option, Chilwell can instead make a strong redemption case to Tuchel.
With Alonso gone, the left channel will be unguarded.
Ben back in the fold
A flank once owned by the Frank Lampard signing that now belongs to another holder.
For whatever reason, Tuchel is yet to fully trust Chilwell.
There haven’t been many clear examples as to why the former Leicester City left-back is being treated this way.
But he must look to right those wrongs whilst the corridor of opportunity is open.
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